The 2026 FIFA World Cup has commenced, bringing a surge of enthusiasm for American fans as they witness the event on their own turf. This is not the country’s first time hosting. The United States previously welcomed the men’s World Cup in 1994 and celebrated the women’s tournament in 1999. Many still remember the moments when the nation embraced soccer wholeheartedly.
Among those who cherish these memories is Mia Hamm, a former U.S. Women’s National Team star. She shared her experiences with Fox News Digital’s Larry Fink as the current World Cup gets underway.
“Representing the U.S., wearing the colors and the badge, meant everything for us,” Hamm explained. “[It’s] something you dream about as a kid and then to have the opportunity to do it for as long as I did, I never took it for granted.”
Mia Hamm played during the 1999 tournament, where the United States claimed their first world title against China. She expressed immense pride in representing her country, especially in a time when national symbols are sometimes seen as divisive.
Recalling those days, Hamm remarked on the thrill of playing a World Cup in her homeland. The excitement was palpable, with traffic and tailgating activities surrounding the stadium on match days.
“To see people in our jerseys, tailgating, playing pickup in the parking lot two hours before the match, just said that this was different,” Hamm said.
Looking at the 2026 tournament, Hamm expressed her hopes for unity. She emphasized soccer’s power to bring people together worldwide, beyond their national identities.
“Sports, and obviously soccer being the world’s game can bring us together like nothing else,” she offered. “I think these players, when they step on the field, they represent so much more than just the country in which they play.”
The United States begins their campaign against Paraguay on Friday, June 12, at 9 p.m., broadcasted on Fox. Fans and players alike share Hamm’s excitement for what’s ahead.
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